Cheer Up Charlies sold to investment firm buying up LGBTQ+ bars and nightclubs

Cheer Up Charlies Sold to Investment Firm

Cheer Up Charlies, a queer-friendly venue, has been sold to Pride Holdings, an investment firm focused on LGBTQ+ entertainment properties.

As part of the deal, owners Maggie Lea and Tamara Hoover stepped down, but will remain in leadership positions. Pride Holdings will handle the venue's rent, payroll, taxes, insurance, and live entertainment costs.

“We’re excited to have a parent company that stabilizes us,” Lea said. “Our missions aligned, and we felt that this was an amazing stroke of luck and fate.”

Pride Holdings has been acquiring and managing queer venues in cities like Chicago, Cincinnati, and Florida. The company's CEO, Mike Barrett, stated:

“Cheer Up Charlie’s isn’t just a bar—it’s a symbol of community, resilience, and celebration.”

The sale aims to bring stability to the venue, with Lea and Hoover remaining involved in its operations.

Author's summary: Cheer Up Charlies sold to Pride Holdings investment firm.

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KUT KUT — 2025-10-14

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